Wall Street Declines Amid Escalating Israel-Iran Conflict

U.S. stocks declined today (June 17, 2025) as investors weighed the latest developments in the Middle East, with the Israel-Iran conflict intensifying for a fifth day. The Dow Jones fell 0.70% to close at 42,215.80 points, the S&P 500 dropped 0.84% to settle at 5,982.72 points, and the Nasdaq retreated 0.91%, closing at 19,521.09 on Wall Street. U.S. President Donald Trump threatened Iran’s leader in a series of posts on Truth Social, demanding ‘UNCONDITIONAL SURRENDER!’. In one post, he wrote, ‘We know exactly where the so-called “Supreme Leader” is hiding. He’s an easy target but safe—for now. We won’t take him out yet, but our patience is wearing thin.’ Oil prices rose as the conflict escalated, reversing earlier losses from Monday fueled by indications that Iran wanted a ceasefire with Israel. Both West Texas Intermediate and Brent future contracts surged over 4%.